Ukraine is working on the creation of a multifunctional missile system. The concept envisions a single, universal platform capable of launching various types of strike assets—essentially an analog of the US-made HIMARS rocket system, which has proven highly effective on the battlefield in the hands of Ukrainian warriors.
This was reported by Colonel Andrii Zhuravlov, Deputy Chief of Staff of the Missile Forces and Artillery Command of the Ukrainian Ground Forces, in comments to RBC-Ukraine.
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No further details about the project have been disclosed so far, except that the "various strike assets" mentioned include guided rockets similar to GMLRS, as well as missiles for different purposes. Earlier, Zhuravlov also emphasized that Ukraine continues to improve its Vilkha multiple-launch rocket system.
The emergence of a domestic HIMARS analog is likely driven by operational military requirements, the development of Ukraine's own strike capabilities, including long-range systems, and the desire to reduce dependence on the US defense industry. This comes amid reports that the United States has declined to integrate its GMLRS rockets into European rocket systems, effectively signaling that those who want to use US missiles must purchase HIMARS.
It can be assumed that the Ukrainian missile system will be built on a European chassis. There is already relevant experience from cooperation on the Bohdana self-propelled howitzer program, under which Germany is allocating €750 million for the production of 200 Ukrainian SPHs based on German Zetros trucks. A similar model could potentially be used in the future to finance the production of Ukrainian missile systems.
As for strike assets, these could include unguided and guided rockets, missiles of various types, including ballistic missiles, and even drones. One illustrative example is the EuroPULS GTF 8×8 system developed by KNDS and Elbit Systems, which, among other capabilities, supports the use of SkyStriker loitering munitions with a range of up to 100 km.
This is in addition to the very broad range of other weapons available for EuroPULS, including the Naval Strike Missile and the Joint Fire Support Missile (JFS-M).
Previously, Defense Express reported that France is developing its own HIMARS analog—offering a real masterclass in how to build a rocket system without having indigenous missiles, fire-control systems, or even a domestic chassis.
Read more: Ukrainian Artillerymen Reveal Bohdana-B Howitzer Characteristics and Compare with American M777
